The mayor of Waltham Forest was on hand last month to officiate the opening of the VetSavers’ newest veterinary surgery, which is also the first of the vet group’s practices to incorporate a fully stocked pet shop.

The mayor of Waltham Forest was on hand last month to officiate the opening of the VetSavers’ newest veterinary surgery, which is also the first of the vet group’s practices to incorporate a fully stocked pet shop.

The official opening of the VetSavers Pet Shop and Veterinary Surgery in Chingford was attended by clients and local residents who all joined in with the activities and celebrations on offer after mayor Richard Sweden cut the red ribbon on November 17.

VetSavers marketing manager Julie Howard said: “VetSavers Pet Shop and Vets took over the old barbers shop on Station Road back in June and has been enjoying seeing pets and there owners in the newly fitted out space ever since.”

She explained: “The decision to move to new premises was made due to our desire to provide clients with a more modern environment that would better service the animals in our care.

“This is also the first practice within the group’s 31 veterinary surgeries to combine a pet shop within the veterinary surgery.”

The family friendly event incorporated interactive displays and activities for kids to enjoy, including a teddy hospital in the kennel area of the vets, face painting and a chance to get up close and identify pet parasites under the microscope.

The day also included a raffle, which raised £120 for local cat sanctuary Scatching Post, and a range of special offers on pet food, selected flea treatments and pet accessories.

VetSavers Chingford is open from 9am–7pm weekdays, and from 9am–5pm on Saturdays.